Joseph Ciminese, longtime M. Wile store manager

Joseph R. Ciminese, longtime manager of the M. Wile & Co. Factory Direct Fashion men’s clothing store on Elmwood Avenue, died unexpectedly Monday in his Town of Tonawanda home. He was 56.

Born in Buffalo, he grew up in North Buffalo and attended St. Mark Elementary School. A graduate of Cardinal Dougherty High School, he attended Buffalo State College.

Mr. Ciminese began in the men’s clothing business with Jacobi Bros. He managed the M. Wile store for more than 25 years until its closing in 2009 and was its public face, appearing in its television commercials. He also worked in sales in the carpet, office furniture and jewelry businesses.

Mr. Ciminese and M. Wile received the Media Award from the Shea’s Performing Arts Center Spotlight Committee in 2006.

Survivors include his wife of 26 years, the former Lynda K. Nyman; and a sister, Mary Bieber.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:30 a.m. Monday in St. Mark Catholic Church, 401 Woodward Ave.